How to Make a Christmas Journal Pocket with Loaded Tags (Step by Step)
A loaded pocket is one of the most satisfying pages to make in a junk journal. It looks full and festive, and everything tucks away so you can pull it out and read it later. This tutorial shows how to build a Christmas journal pocket with loaded tags from printable pieces, from the base to the finishing touches.
If you are looking for Christmas junk journal ideas, this is a good place to start. You only need a handful of pieces and some glue. For more on layering, see How to Layer a Junk Journal Pocket.
What You’ll Need for a Christmas Journal Pocket
- A pocket with tucks (the base)
- A bottom pocket
- Journal tags
- Fussy cuts (the small cut-out images)
- A band
- Decorative pieces for the front of the pocket
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Scissors
All of the pieces in this tutorial come from the Peppermint & Pine Complete Collection. I used pockets, tags, and fussy cuts from it.
Step 1: Glue the Pocket and Tucks
Start with the pocket and tucks. Glue or tape down the sides and the bottom. Leave the tops open so you can slip tags and ephemera inside later.
Step 2: Add the Bottom Pocket
Place the bottom pocket over the lower part of the base. Glue the sides and the bottom, again leaving the top open. This gives you a second place to tuck things, so the page holds more.
Step 3: Fill the Tucks
Slide your tags and fussy cuts into the tucks. Let some of them peek out above the edge, because that is what gives a loaded pocket its look. Try placing the taller pieces toward the back.
Step 4: Fill the Bottom Pocket
Tuck more tags and fussy cuts into the bottom pocket, then add the band. The band helps hold the pieces in place and gives the pocket another layer.
Step 5: Decorate the Front
Finish by adding decorations to the front of the pocket. A bow, holly, and a peppermint make the page feel complete. Add or remove pieces until it looks right to you.
Tips for a Better Christmas Journal Pocket
- Print on cardstock or heavyweight matte paper. The tags will hold their shape and slide in and out more easily.
- Layer from back to front. Place the largest pieces first, then the smaller ones.
- Use foam tape on a few decorations. It adds dimension without much bulk.
- Leave room for journaling. A few blank tags or a journaling card make the pocket useful as well as pretty.
Get the Pieces for Your Christmas Journal Pocket
Everything in this tutorial is included in the Peppermint & Pine Complete Collection. Print, cut, and build as many pockets as you like.
